Compliance Specialist

OTTAWA UNIVERSITY•,

11d

About The Position

The Compliance Specialist carries out assigned duties related to university student financial aid packaging policies and procedures, Federal and State financial aid regulations, and the relationships among the entities involved. The role supports university campuses, departments, employees, and students across multiple states and academic programs by providing accurate and effective service. It requires problem-solving and multitasking, and regular communication by phone, email, and in person under limited supervision. The position reviews student application information, identifies and resolves discrepancies, supports financial aid advisors, conducts student need analysis, develops award packages, and ensures the timely processing and disbursement of aid. The specialist monitors regulatory compliance, keeps current with Federal and State requirements, and works with students, families, advisors, and colleagues to resolve incomplete documentation or other issues affecting disbursements. The role also supports collaboration and coordination of office responsibilities. The position is full-time. It involves prolonged sitting, lifting 5–15 pounds, and daily stair use in an office building. Evening and weekend activities may be required for certain events and meetings, with periodic long hours depending on business cycles and priorities. The posting states no travel is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
Prior Title IV financial aid experience.
Two to five years of general work experience.
Experience with financial aid technologies and relevant financial aid software applications, including oversight of those technologies and applications and the ability to train others.
Knowledge of the operation of standard office equipment.
Excellent verbal, written, and mathematics skills.
Accuracy, organization, and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and cooperatively; self-starter.
Knowledge of and experience with current personal computer technologies and applications, including standard office functions, spreadsheets, word processing, and relevant web-based applications.
Systems- and process-minded, with the ability to see the bigger picture.
Ability to sit for prolonged periods, lift 5–15 pounds at a time, and use stairs daily.
Must be able to meet any driving requirements stated for the position; the job details mention an MVR requirement, while the travel section states no travel is required.

Responsibilities

Email students through the JFA system about missing documents to support the Student Financial Services Advisor.
Review student application information for completeness and accuracy; reconcile discrepancies and ensure compliance with Federal and State regulations.
Apply knowledge of Federal and State regulations and identify and resolve potential compliance issues.
Participate in webinars and workshops to remain current with Federal and State regulations.
Suggest policy and procedure modifications to address regulatory changes.
Monitor and enforce regulations governing Federal, State, institutional, and campus-based aid programs across multiple sites and academic programs.
Conduct need analysis for each student under Federal and institutional policies and develop award packages.
Determine the amount and timing of student aid disbursements and take steps to apply funds to student accounts.
Work with student advisors, students, and families to support timely application processing and adequate funding.
Review, verify, and maintain information on pending student loan and grant disbursements.
Resolve information errors, incomplete documents, and other issues that delay disbursement.
Coordinate office responsibilities with the Student Financial Services Advisor, ensure required duties are completed, and support colleagues’ workloads as needed.
Communicate and collaborate effectively with others and share resources.
Perform other duties as assigned.